Sultanas of Turkey – Women Only
Discover Turkey through the stories, strength and creativity of women on this inspiring 10-day cultural journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale and Bodrum.
This specially curated itinerary explores the powerful role of women throughout Turkish and Anatolian history, from the influence of the Valide Sultans in the Ottoman Palace and the legacy of the Great Mother in ancient Ephesus, to today’s female artisans, entrepreneurs, winemakers and local community leaders. Along the way, guests will enjoy meaningful cultural encounters, hands-on workshops and authentic local experiences that directly support women-led initiatives. Blending history, wellness, slow travel and female-led local experiences, this tour offers a deeper and more meaningful way to discover Turkey — celebrating the women who shaped its past and continue to enrich its present.
Tour Highlights
- Istanbul – Topkapi Palace and Harem
- Cappadocia – Red Valley
- Cappadocia – Cooking Class
- Cappadocia – Avanos – Pottery Village
- Ephesus Ancient City
Price from
$6,789.00
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Tour Information
Tour Operator:
Fez Travel
Max group size:
Up to 20
Destination
Turkey
Age range:
Tour id:
Adventure Style:
Inclusions:
- Professional English-speaking tour guide ensuring expert guidance and support throughout your entire journey.
- Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle.
- Domestic flight between Istanbul and Cappadocia and transfers
- Domestic flight between Cappadocia and Izmir and transfers
- Entrance fees
- Welcome Dinner on Day 1
- 9 nights accommodation
- 9 breakfasts
Departures:
Every Friday
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Turkey! Today you will be transferred to your hotel according to your arrival flight time, and the rest of the day will be free until the “Welcome Circle” dinner at a restaurant specialising in Ottoman Palace Cuisine, focusing on the recipes of the Valide Sultans (Queen Mothers).
Day 2
A specialized tour of the Topkapi Palace Harem, focusing on the “Sultanate of Women”—the era when powerful women influenced the politics of the Empire. Visit a local weaving atelier in Sultanahmet where women are revitalizing traditional silk and cotton looming.
Day 3
Today you’ll be transferred to Istanbul Airport for your morning flight to Cappadocia. After your airport transfer, in the afternoon, you’ll have a walking tour through the Red Valley. In the evening visit a local family home for a traditional tea session to discuss rural life and female education initiatives in the region.
Day 4
A visit to a Women’s Cooperative in Avanos or Ürgüp. Here, you will join a cooking workshop making mantı (Turkish ravioli) or gözleme, directly supporting local women’s financial independence. Visit a female-owned pottery studio to see how modern women are breaking into the traditionally male-dominated world of Hittite ceramic art.
Day 5
Today you’ll be transferred to the airport in Cappadocia for your flight to Izmir. After arriving in Izmir, we’ll take you to your hotel to rest and explore Kusadasi at your own pace.
Day 6
Explore Ephesus, emphasising the importance of the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders) and the Cult of the Great Mother. Visit Sirince Village. Meet with the local women who produce fruit wines and handcrafted lace (oya). We will visit a social enterprise shop where proceeds benefit the village’s female artisans.
Day 7
Today we’ll visit the white terraces of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis. A dip in the Antique Cleopatra Pool, celebrated for centuries as a center for beauty and healing. We’ll then continue to the coastal beauty of Bodrum.
Day 8
A visit to the Bodrum Maritime Museum to hear stories of the female divers and sponge hunters of the Aegean. In the afternoon visit a female-owned boutique winery in the Bodrum hills for a tasting session and a talk on women in Turkish viticulture.
Day 9
Relax at the hotel or explore the marina. Optional Activity: A private gullet cruise (traditional wooden boat) with a female crew or captain, emphasizing a safe and serene environment for the group to swim and relax.
Day 10
Transfer to Bodrum Airport and the tour ends at Bodrum Airport.